Athletics director Bob Philip takes on new role at UBC

Media Release | June 26, 2012

UBC Athletics Director Bob Philip has been appointed senior advisor to Vice President, Students Louise Cowin. Starting on July 16th, Philip will provide advice to the Vice President, Students as she embarks on ambitious new plans for athletics and recreation.

Building on the relationships that he forged for 20 years with UBC Athletics and Recreation, Philip will champion Thunderbird student-athletes and varsity sport, strengthen established connections with alumni, and seek out new possibilities for student athletes in the areas of community service and international competition.

“The UBC Athletics program has excelled under Bob’s leadership,” said Louise Cowin, Vice-President, Students. “Given his rich experience, extensive networks, and deep commitment to athletics and recreation, Bob is in an excellent position to advise me as I lead the process to shape the vision for Athletics and Recreation.”

Philip has been Director of Athletics and Recreation since 1994. His ability to fundraise and generate business allowed UBC to add new facilities such as the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Arena, the Tennis Centre, the John M.S. Lecky UBC Boathouse in Richmond and the Thunderbird Park playing fields. Philip was central to adding women’s rugby, ice hockey and softball to UBC’s programs, as well as restarting the men’s baseball program in 1996. In addition to the 54 Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) championships in 14 different sports captured by UBC Thunderbird teams, UBC athletes have won 5 women’s and 2 men’s golf National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) championships.

“It is always difficult to move on after such a long time, however, I am very much looking forward to my new role and the opportunities it will bring as we move ahead into what promises to be a very exciting time for athletics, recreation and the University,” said Philip.

The search for a new Director of Athletics and Recreation will begin later this fall.